As much as possible, mothers want to have normal childbirth. However, not because we want something to happen means it will happen. For example, 31.9% of all deliveries in the US are through C-section. The problem here is that it makes the recovery process longer. That said, you should prepare for it. If you know you have to go through this procedure, you need to buy these 15 C-section recovery must-haves.
Importance of C-Section Recovery
Cesarean delivery or C-section is sometimes required to ensure the safety of both you and your baby. However, this procedure makes the recovery longer than usual. It typically lasts for 4 to 6 weeks, but it varies from person to person. Some women report that they still feel pain 6 months after childbirth.
That said, you should be well prepared. Knowing what to do and having the products that could aid you in your recovery will make it less stressful. They could also speed up your recovery and increase the chances of its success.
15 C-Section Recovery Must-Haves
Here are the 15 best c-section recovery items you should check and buy.
1. Momcozy Recovery Belly Wrap
The Momcozy Recovery Belly Wrap is a special belly wrap that ensures a successful and more comfortable recovery process. It is built on the brand's patented Ergonest Support Structure™. It offers strong support to your lower back and abdomen, which relieves pain caused by childbirth and caring for your newborn.
More importantly, this belly wrap offers comprehensive abdominal support by gently applying pressure. This helps stabilize the wound area after a C-section and prevents reopening.
It is also important for recovery items to not cause irritation to your wound. You'd be happy to hear that the Momcozy Belly Wrap is made with hospital-grade materials and breathable fabric. As such, it is safe to wear even against your skin.
Lastly, this recovery belly wrap is for everyone. It is available in 4 different sizes. Therefore, you can find one that perfectly fits your recovery journey.
2. Peri-Bottle
A peri-bottle is like a portable bidet that you can use to clean the area between your vagina and your anus. You will not have perineal stitches because you had a cesarean birth instead of a normal one. Still, there will be bleeding. This product will help you clean that area without bending over, which can be very painful since you have wounds from the c-section.
A peri-bottle will also help prevent infection, which will affect your recovery journey.
3. Comfortable Clothes
Comfortable clothes will also play a big part in your recovery. Imagine wearing tight-fitting clothes that come into contact with your wounds after your c-section. It will slow down the healing process. So, opt for the opposite of that. Buy soft clothing with extra room in the area around your abdomen.
4. Breast Pump
You may not be able to breastfeed immediately after giving birth. The problem is that you'd want to establish your milk supply. A great breast pump will allow you to do that. You should express the milk inside your breasts to encourage milk production. The Momcozy M9 Breast Pump is your best choice for that. It offers adjustable speeds and you can use it hands-free.
5. Large Water Bottle
You need to drink a lot of water. That is especially true if you live in a place with very hot weather. It will help prevent issues like dehydration and heat exhaustion. But that's not all. For women who had a cesarean delivery, drinking lots of water will help deliver oxygen to your wound via your blood.
With all that said, you should buy a large water bottle. It will prevent frequent trips to the kitchen or dining room. Less movement, less pain.
6. Cold Packs
Cold therapy is a great pain relief method after a cesarean childbirth. You should buy and prepare cold packs for this. Simply hold that to your wound to feel its effects. It is a natural and easy way to reduce discomfort. Also, cold packs are inexpensive, so you don't need to worry about the price either.
7. No-Skid Slippers
A c-section can also cause swelling in your feet. This is caused by extra fluid in your tissues. It can make walking uncomfortable. That said, you should have footwear that helps reduce discomfort. Your best option is no-skid slippers with extra room for your swollen feet. It will also help prevent slipping, which will make your recovery progress slower.
8. Compression Socks
Besides no-skid slippers, you also need compression socks. These are special socks that help reduce swelling by helping improve blood flow to your feet. Effectively, these socks help remove the extra fluid in your body.
9. Stool Softener
You may experience uncomfortable constipation for a few days after your c-section. Having a stool softener makes navigating this challenge a lot easier.
10. Postpartum Pads
As mentioned above, giving birth will cause bleeding. It is a normal thing that happens when the placenta detaches from the body. With that said, you need postpartum pads. They will absorb the blood that leaves your body. Also, using postpartum pads will make you feel cleaner and more comfortable. This will create a positive effect on your mood, which helps in your recovery process.
11. Nursing Pillow
Exclusively breastfeeding your baby until they are 6 months old is recommended. However, finding a comfortable breastfeeding position is difficult for c-section moms. So, how do you solve this? Enter nursing pillows. These will prop your baby up and allow them to latch effectively without causing you pain.
If you are looking for a good nursing pillow, check out the Momcozy MaxSupport Nursing Pillow. It features widened sides, which helps provide more comprehensive arms support for you. It also has adjustable straps, so you can use it regardless of your size.
12. Painkillers
Painkillers can help you overcome the pain coming from your wounds. However, please ask your doctor first before you buy and consume one. They will suggest the best option for you. If the suggested painkiller fails to work for you, you should ask your doctor again before switching to another one.
13. C-Section Silicone Patches
Once your c-section incision has closed, you should keep it clean and moisturized. Doing so will help prevent infection and hypertrophic scarring. You need c-section silicone patches for this. You can start using the patches 2 weeks after childbirth. Then, keep using them for 2 to 4 months.
14. Postpartum Underwear
You need underwear that is comfortable and breathable since there will be bleeding around that area. These qualities will help reduce the discomfort you would feel. On top of that, choose postpartum underwear that is stretchable. You should be able to pull it above the incision area.
15. Postpartum Vitamins
Postpartum vitamins are always great to have, regardless of your childbirth method. They will ensure you are getting adequate nutrients not just for you but also for your baby. They are even more important if you are breastfeeding. Consult your doctor to know what vitamins and supplements you need.
Conclusion
The challenges in motherhood do not end at childbirth. In fact, that is just the beginning. You will have to face and endure many problems, and one of them is the pain and discomfort after your c-section. Thankfully, with the c-section recovery must-haves that we have listed above, you can make it easier for yourself. Painkillers and cold packs can help alleviate pain. Meanwhile, the Momcozy Recovery Belly Wrap can provide you with added support.
